A wonderful example of the ritual masks from Nepal's far West in
the vicinity of Humla. The masks are distinctive for the
"top knot" style which reflects the hairstyle once commonly worn
by men in that area. Masks were used in dances to ward off
evil spirits that would harm the crops, livestock and villagers,
and also in rituals to celebrate the harvest season. This
area retains a strong animist inclination and powerful local
gods are revered and communicated with via shamans, or Dhamis as
they are known locally, who enter a state of possession where
the the gods can speak through them.